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+ servings
Summer Orzo Pasta Salad

Zesty Summer Orzo Pasta Salad for Fresh Flavors and Fun

This Summer Orzo Pasta Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish brimming with colorful vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo can swap with small pasta like ditalini or couscous
  • 1 each Red Bell Pepper adds a sweet crunch
  • 1 each Orange Bell Pepper enhances sweetness and visual appeal
  • 1 each Red Onion use green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1 each Cucumber zucchini works as a lovely alternative
  • 1 cup Corn can substitute with black beans
  • 1 cup Tomatoes cherry tomatoes can simplify preparation
  • 1 cup Basil you can use parsley or cilantro if necessary
  • 2 each Green Onion optional
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese omit for vegan-friendly version
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil avocado oil is a substitute
  • 1 each Lemon Juice & Zest vinegar like apple cider can work in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning herbes de Provence is an excellent substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard leave it out for a simpler dressing
  • to taste Salt and Pepper always adjust to taste
  • 1 clove Garlic omit for a milder vinaigrette

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • colander
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking and Preparation
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, chop your red and orange bell peppers, red onion, cucumber, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Stir in the corn, chopped basil, and sliced green onions.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetable and orzo mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Enjoy the salad immediately or let it rest for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for summer and can be made ahead for gatherings. Customize it with your favorite proteins to make it a complete meal.

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